A pilot study is being conducted to test different survey types and mailing techniques. The results from the pilot project will help improve the survey methodology and refine the survey research tools to accurately assess dietary and lifestyle factors. Lifestyle surveys have been created to ascertain baseline demographics and potential risk factors for prostate cancer survival and progression. Two versions have been generated to test participant response to varying survey lengths (a short form vs. a long form). The initial mailing of the lifestyle and dietary surveys was directed to 836 veterans diagnosed with prostate cancer in the Boston VA Healthcare Network (ICD-9 code in patient treatment files). Surveys were sent to 132 African-American veterans, 342 white veterans, and 362 veterans with no known race. An Access database has been developed to track survey response and blood collection sites have been established in VA health facilities in the Boston area. A phone tracking system has been established to answer participants questions about the survey. A total of 251 (30%) of the veterans completed the surveys and 72% agreed to provide blood samples. The response rate was 11% for African-Americans, 28% for whites, and 27% for unknown race. Follow-up mailings are currently being sent to veterans who didn't respond to the initial survey request. A telephone survey is being designed to target African-American non-responders to improve survey response in this cohort.